Man accused in Montee Ball attack reaches deal

MADISON, Wis.—One of three men accused of attacking Wisconsin running back Montee Ball in August has reached a deal with prosecutors.

Twenty-one-year-old Wendell Venerable of Madison is scheduled for a plea hearing Dec. 17. His lawyer, Brian Hough, told the Wisconsin State Journal (http://bit.ly/TKfF4A) he could not comment on the agreement, but confirmed Friday that one had been reached.

Venerable is charged with substantial battery for the alleged Aug. 1 attack. Two other men charged in the case—22-year-old Robert A. Wilks and 21-year-old Deonte J. Wilson, both of Madison—are scheduled for trial on Dec. 17.

The three are charged with attacking Ball as he walked behind two friends, leaving Ball unconscious and with a concussion. Ball has said he does not remember the attack.